Assistant Research Technician - Laboratory of Dr. Hong Li

Van Andel Institute (VAI), a world-class biomedical research institute, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is dedicated to improving human health. We are pioneers in the fight against cancer, Parkinson's, and other diseases. We are committed to inspiring the next generation of scientists and educators.

Van Andel Institute (VAI), a leading independent biomedical research facility, is dedicated to determining the epigenetic, genetic, molecular and cellular origins of cancer, Parkinson’s and other diseases, and translating those findings into effective therapies. The Institute is home to more than 400 scientists and support staff that work in on-site laboratories and in collaborative partnerships that span the globe.

The lab of Hong Li, Ph.D., within the Department of Structural Biology, is seeking to hire a full time Assistant Research Technician to join the research team.  The designated position will depend on the education and experience of the candidate. Dr. Li’s lab employs molecular biology, biochemistry, and structural biology approaches to investigate fundamental mechanisms of gene regulation and develop their biotechnological applications.

In this role as a Assistant Research Technician, you will:

• Design and execute molecular cloning experiments

• Design and execute protein purification experiments

• Mentor and train research trainees on experimental techniques and protocols

• Participate in writing publications and grant applications

You will possess a B.S. degree and preferably more than one year of experience, in a related field. The ideal candidate should possess the following characteristics:  

• A self-driven and hard-working individual who has a strong curiosity about basic science and its clinical application

• A highly organized multi-tasker who pays attention to detail and values research integrity

• A collegial team member with the ability to interact effectively and cordially with colleagues

• Excellent oral and written communication skills

• Familiar with bacterial and eukaryotic protein expression systems

• Experience in protein purification and molecular cloning

EXPECTATIONS

The following expectations should be met within the first 3 months.

• 1-3 months – Develop a solid understanding of lab projects and background, develop familiarity with lab techniques and approaches. Learn institutional systems for daily lab operations including safety, ordering, inventories, and similar.

• 3-6 months – Take leadership role in lab project coordination, experimental design and execution, assist with training new lab members, serve as a technical resource for other research staff.

COMPENSATION and BENEFITS

All fulltime employees of Van Andel Institute are eligible for benefits, effective Day One! This is a salaried position, which will be based on your experience and skills.

HOW TO APPLY

If you possess these attributes and enjoy working with motivated and driven people, we welcome speaking with you and encourage you to apply today!

• A cover letter describing your research interests, experience, and how you might contribute to research in the Hong Li Lab.

• An up-to-date Curriculum Vitae.

• Names of 2 individuals who have agreed to act as references along with their contact details. 

About Van Andel Institute

Established in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1996 by the Van Andel family, VAI is now home to nearly 500 scientists, educators and support staff, who work with national and international collaborators to foster discovery. The Institute’s scientists study the origins of cancer, Parkinson’s and other diseases and translate their findings into breakthrough prevention and treatment strategies. Our educators develop inquiry-based approaches for K–12 education to help students and teachers prepare the next generation of problem-solvers, while our Graduate School offers a rigorous, research-intensive Ph.D. program in molecular and cellular biology.

VAI is committed to excellence through broad participation and diverse perspectives. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences who share our passion for innovation and collaboration.

Van Andel Institute is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) Employer.   

As Van Andel Institute is a drug free employer, all prospective new employees undergo a urinalysis/drug test as part of our pre-employment process.  This is a 7-panel drug screen and it includes testing for Marijuana, Cocaine, Amphetamines, Opiates, PCP, Barbiturates, and Benzodiazepines. 

About Grand Rapids, MI  

Van Andel Institute is in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan in the center of the Medical Mile.  A remarkable combination of a cosmopolitan atmosphere and small-town warmth, Grand Rapids is known for its philanthropic and sustainability-driven community. It’s fun affordable and family-friendly.  

Located on the banks of the Grand River, Grand Rapids offers all the big-city excitement you'd expect from a million-resident metropolis, featuring hundreds of restaurants and nightspots, theaters, museums, sports and concerts. The safe and clean downtown is surrounded by an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas. The downtown area is safe and clean with an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas.